Experience Aston Martin ‘Art of Living’ ~ Part 2 ~ The DB11 Drive

You have read Part 1 of my Aston Martin ‘Art of Living’ DB11 experience, the factory tour & design masterclass, so what is it like to drive the beast? We had our own early morning fuelling by way of the impressive breakfast feast at The Painswick Hotel (view the hotel here) and set off bright and early into the rolling Cotswold countryside to put the DB11 through its paces.

The official production line began only this week (end of Sept 2016) so heads turned as we weaved our way in and out of the country lanes on our two day adventure. Those who know, knew this was a new model, and the DB11 received plenty of attention. We were amongst the very lucky few in the world to experience this new DB before production officially began, and we were all set to put this grand tourer’s pioneering aerodynamics to the test.

Aston Martin is a British luxury brand with more than a century of success to its name. A brand known for its legendary quality and high luxury values. This new Aston Martin DB11 is the latest in an illustrious bloodline. Launched under the company’s ‘Second Century’ plan the DB11 is the bold new figurehead of the illustrious DB series. An authentic, dynamic sporting GT.

Showcasing a fresh and distinctive design language, powered by a potent new in-house designed 5.2-litre twin turbo-charged V12 engine. It’s lighter, stronger and more space efficient. The bonded aluminium structure makes this the most powerful, most efficient and most dynamically gifted DB model in Aston Martin’s history.

“We aspire to make the most beautiful cars in the world. DB11 is the absolute embodiment of what an Aston Martin should be and we have worked tirelessly to ensure that the DB11 combines both exceptional design with the latest technology throughout. This is the sports car that will proudly spearhead Aston Martin’s second century plan”

Aston Martin Chief Executive officer, Dr Andy Palmer.  

Heralding a new design era for Aston Martin, the DB11 is the latest landmark in a remarkable aesthetic journey. Icons such as the DB2/4, DB5 and most recently the James Bond DB10.

The DB11 is filled with a series of fresh design signatures. The front-hinging clamshell bonnet, the distinctive LED headlights and the profile is equally dramatic. Our design masterclass gave us an insight into the designers thought processes. Using clay scale models which allow them to sculpt new lines that became imperative to the innovative aerodynamics, which play their part in the clever management of airflow both over and through the bodywork aiding stability. An absolute necessity when setting the car through it’s paces.

A few hours drive following the in-car satellite navigation we made it to Cowley Manor in Cheltenham for lunch. Surrounded by 55 acres of parkland, natural springs and lakes it was the perfect spot to unwind for lunch, (driving the DB11 before it had launched came with minor sensations of terror/panic, hence major levels of concentration were needed throughout). It was a welcome break to let my very tense shoulders relax back into a more comfortable position.

We headed back up to Gaydon mid afternoon, no scratches, car intact, feeling rather proud of myself for mastering such a powerful beast. The best bit, is that you can experience adventures like this for yourself. Visit the ‘Art of Living’ website here and read about the upcoming experiences for 2016 and 2017.

With thanks to Aston Martin, Quintessentially, Cowley Manor & The Painswick Hotel

#AMArtofLiving #AstonMartin #DB11 Images C/O Max Earey & LWSY

Published September 2016